The fitness and wellness community is currently reeling from the recent loss of renowned instructor Andro Henry. As friends and colleagues reflect on his impactful career, veteran wellness expert and entrepreneur Shani McGraham-Shirley is committed to preserving Henry’s legacy as a pillar of the industry.
“I want people to remember his name; Andro Henry was a legend,” she shared with Lifestyle. “He was honest, opinionated, ethical, and exuded talent, passion, and kindness. His dedication and selflessness truly set him apart.”
McGraham-Shirley described Henry not just as a skilled fitness instructor, but also as a devoted family man and a supportive friend. “Our journey began about 15 years ago when I started teaching Zumba. Although I met Andro earlier at Spartan Gym and Gymkhana Fitness, it was our collaboration that really defined our relationship,” she explained.
She recalled being initially hesitant to join his fitness class but was quickly drawn in by Henry’s warmth and charisma. “You know that feeling when someone’s aura or energy captivates you? That was Andro. His positive energy lit up every room he entered, and it was authentic from the moment I met him,” she reminisced.
After opening Chai Studios, Henry became an instructor there, and the duo worked well together—until a misunderstanding created a barrier between them. “We lost contact for a year or two due to a miscommunication. Fortunately, a client encouraged us to reconcile, and when we did, it was remarkable to see how differently we had interpreted the situation.”
As their friendship deepened, the professional relationship shifted into a family-like bond, fueling their mutual desire to support each other’s journeys. “In fitness, it’s vital to connect with others energetically. It’s like finishing each other’s sentences—Andro and I could seamlessly complete each other’s movements. That’s a rare and powerful connection,” McGraham-Shirley said.
HIS FAMILY FIRST
While Henry was an exceptional instructor, McGraham-Shirley admired his dedication to his family even more. “Seeing him as a family man surpassed any professional interaction we had. He epitomized what it means to be a provider and protector. You would rarely see him without his four women—his mother, wife, and two daughters, who were his biggest supporters.”
In the past years, during their Fit Fyah series, the two would often laugh about how age was catching up with them. Simple movements that once felt effortless now required more thought. “I used to tease him about it all the time,” she chuckled.
However, in recent months, signs of health issues surfaced. “During the Fit Fyah series, he taught the first week, but it was clear he wasn’t himself. By week three, I made the decision not to put him on stage anymore. Although he was upset with my choice, he continued to support the other instructors with family by his side.”
With the sudden news of Henry’s passing still settling in, McGraham-Shirley expressed a deep sense of loss. “I miss him dearly. My clients miss him. What comforts me is knowing we never left anything unsaid. Andro made sure I knew my value to him, and it meant the world when someone reached out on social media to say he spoke highly of me.”
In honor of Henry, his Yahsuh FitBox family will host interactive dance classes over the next two Saturdays to support medical and funeral expenses. Scheduled for April 25 and May 2 at the Barbican Sports Complex in St. Andrew, the classes will showcase various instructors across multiple dance genres.
“Andro had a wealth of experience in various fitness formats, from weight training to spinning. Before diving into fitness, he was a disc jockey, and music was woven into his life. We want to celebrate his journey, inviting everyone to join us as we honor his legacy. All proceeds will directly assist his family,” she said.
At just 51 years old, Andro Henry was a vital member of the Express Fitness team, celebrated for his ability to energize and instill confidence in everyone he met.
If you’d like to support the cause, consider participating in the upcoming classes and celebrating a life that inspired many.
